Method and composition for bonding dissimilar materials

Abstract

To provide a cement formulation and a method for bonding dissimilar materials.SOLUTION: A method of bonding a first material to a second material, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, and wherein the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, wherein the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is amorphous or has a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity, the method comprising: Wherein the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus of about 1800 to about 3000MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness ranging from about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof, and wherein the method comprises providing a bonding agent and bonding the first material to the second material using the bonding agent. The binder comprises one or more of the group consisting of an organic solvent capable of dissolving the materials, a blend of the first and second materials, and a polymeric material functionalized with polar groups.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 733,516, filed September 19, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of polymeric materials. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to dissimilar polymeric materials and bonding agent or adhesive formulations for bonding them. [Background technology]

[0003] Various grafting techniques for increasing surface energy or compatibilizing dissimilar materials are known in the prior art [1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10]. Bonding of dissimilar materials is difficult to achieve due to their different chemical properties. In particular, bonding of polyolefin-based materials is challenging due to their low surface energy, requiring priming with adhesives or special surface treatments before bonding. The prior art contains examples of modification techniques or grafting and specific formulations for improving adhesion between functionalized polyolefins and various coatings, paints, and adhesives [3, 5, 11].

[0004] In particular, EP 1233039 describes modified polyolefin formulations (thermoplastic olefin-based) containing one ester-containing functional group and the grafting of at least one hydroxyl group and / or one oxirane group to improve adhesion and adhesion to coatings. The use of cements and primers in the industry is known for bonding polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping and pipe fittings. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,613,187 B1 describes cementing techniques for bonding polyolefin materials to each other or for bonding similar materials and low-crystalline polymers to low-crystalline polymers. However, this disclosure does not describe methods or formulations for achieving bonding of dissimilar materials with different chemical and material properties (e.g., crystallinity, polarity, etc.). Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The techniques disclosed herein advantageously achieve higher graft densities (typically up to 1 wt%) than commercially available grafted polyolefins. Furthermore, the techniques disclosed herein can eliminate the need for and additional step of applying a primer and the use of expensive adhesives prior to bonding dissimilar materials. Advantageously, common, inexpensive solvents can be used to bond parts suitable for mass production or part assembly. Additional benefits include minimal change in bulk properties of the assembled parts, such as clarity and suitability for medical supply (e.g., low extractables / leachables) applications.

[0006] Additionally, methods described herein address the challenge of bonding dissimilar polymeric materials. In particular, these methods are designed to improve adhesion between low-crystalline polyolefins (such as thermoplastic elastomers and thermoplastic olefins) and rigid amorphous materials or low-crystalline polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Furthermore, the disclosed methods allow for the use of inexpensive solvents that are practical for use in mass production and avoid separate priming or heating steps. While specific use cases include the medical industry, these solutions have broad applicability in other industries. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, a bonding agent for adhering a first material to a second material is provided, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50%, the second material comprising a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus ranging from about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, a PVC having a Shore A hardness ranging from about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof, and the bonding agent comprises one or more polymers, such as an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, which can be up to 51% by weight or more, a polyolefin elastomer, and a solvent group forming a solvent or solvent system, and optionally a tackifier. The bonding agent acts to bond the dissimilar materials when exposed to heat using conventional sterilization methods.

[0008] In another embodiment, a method for bonding a first material to a second material is provided, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50%, and the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus ranging from about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness ranging from about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof, the method comprising: i) modifying the first material with polar functional groups that increase the affinity of the first material for the second material; and ii) bonding the first material to the second material. The method operates via modification of the predominant non-PVC material with highly polar functional groups to improve its chemical affinity to the second material and its ability to chemically bond via a suitable solvent or solvent system.

[0009] In another embodiment, a method of bonding a first material to a second material, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, wherein the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is amorphous or has a crystallinity in the range of about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity, and the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus in the range of about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness in the range of about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof; A method is provided, comprising: i) providing a binder comprising one or more of the group consisting of: a) an organic solvent or solvent mixture capable of dissolving a first material and a second material; b) a blend of the first material and the second material; c) a polymeric material selected from polypropylene (PP), thermoplastic olefin (TPO), and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), wherein the polymeric material is functionalized with a polar group; and ii) bonding the first material to the second material using the binder.

[0010] In another embodiment, a method of bonding a first material to a second material, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity, and the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus ranging from about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness ranging from about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof. a) mixing the first material with up to about 51% by weight of a functionalized polymer; b) mixing the first material with up to about 5% by weight of a secondary compatibilizer; c) mixing the first material with up to about 5% by weight of an adhesion promoter; d) mixing the first material with up to about 5% by weight of an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer; and ii) bonding the modified first material to a second material.

[0011] Related aspects include the use of other methods involving similar technical principles. For example, the polarity of non-PVC materials can be increased using surface deposition techniques to graft functional groups that increase polarity. One example is the use of atmospheric pressure plasma deposition techniques to deposit polar chemical groups, such as maleic anhydride, acrylic acid, or similar reagents, onto non-PVC surfaces. This technique allows for modification of the non-PVC surface while preserving the desired bulk properties of the material (e.g., rheology, mechanical properties, clarity, etc.). The methods disclosed herein can also be optimized for processing through conventional processing equipment.

[0012] Additional features and advantages of the subject technology will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the description and embodiments set forth herein, as well as the accompanying drawings.

[0013] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology.

[0014] Various features of exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings, which illustrate, but do not limit, the invention. The drawings include the following figures: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 shows a Luer tube assembly bonded with Degalan® functionalized olefin copolymer as described in Example 1.

[0016] [Figure 2] 1 shows a bond strength test apparatus as described in Example 1 and sample placement therein.

[0017] [Figure 3]1 shows a T-shaped polycarbonate connector made by bonding 50 / 50 Makrolon 2458 / Makrolon Rx 1805 to a thermoplastic elastomer tube made from Teknor Apex Medalist MD575 according to the method of Example 2.

[0018] [Figure 4] 1 shows a graph of the average bond tensile load of various concentrations of OFS6030 solutions from the experiments of Example 2.

[0019] [Figure 5] 1 shows a graph of bond strength as a function of oven temperature for the material of Example 1.

[0020] [Figure 6] 1 is a plot of force versus affinity of a binder with a component. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] It is understood that various configurations of the subject technology will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure, and various configurations of the subject technology have been shown and described by way of example in this disclosure. As will be realized, the subject technology is capable of other different configurations, and its several details can be modified in various other respects, all without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Accordingly, the summary, drawings, and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

[0022] The detailed description set forth below is intended to be a description of various configurations of the subject technology and does not represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. The accompanying drawings are incorporated into this specification and constitute a part of the detailed description. The detailed description includes specific details for a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject technology may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology. Identical components are designated with the same element numbers for ease of understanding.

[0023] In one embodiment, a bonding agent for adhering a first material to a second material is provided, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, which is amorphous or has a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity, the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus ranging from about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness ranging from about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof, and the bonding agent comprises one or more polymers, for example, an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, which can be up to 51 wt % or more, a polyolefin elastomer, and a solvent or solvents forming a solvent system, and optionally a tackifier.

[0024] The degree of crystallinity of a solid material, such as a polymeric solid, can be determined by any suitable means. "Crystallinity" refers to the degree of structural order in a solid. In a crystal, atoms or molecules are arranged in a regular, periodic manner. Crystallinity affects the hardness, density, and transparency of the solid. The order in a crystalline material can be understood by contrasting it with the positions of atoms in a gaseous state, where the relative positions of atoms or molecules are completely random. "Amorphous" materials, such as liquids and glasses, represent an intermediate case, with short-range order (the spacing of a few atoms or molecules) but long-range disorder.

[0025] Some polymeric materials can be prepared in a way that produces a mixture of crystalline and amorphous regions. In such cases, crystallinity is usually defined as the volume percent of the material that is crystalline. Polymer crystallization is a process related to the partial alignment of its molecular chains. These chains fold together to form ordered regions called lamellae, which then organize into larger spheroidal structures called spherulites. https: / / en.wikipedia.org / wiki / Crystallization_of_polymers-cite_note-sp-1 Polymers can crystallize upon cooling from the melt, mechanical stretching, or solvent evaporation. Crystallization affects the polymer's optical, mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. The degree of crystallinity is estimated by various analytical methods and typically ranges from 10 to 80%, so crystalline polymers are often referred to as "semicrystalline." The properties of semicrystalline polymers are determined not only by the degree of crystallinity but also by the size and orientation of the molecular chains.

[0026] One technique for determining the crystallinity of polymeric solids is Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). DSC is a technique that measures the heat flow into or out of a material as a function of time or temperature. The crystallinity of a polymer can be determined by the rate at which the polymer melts (coalesces, ΔH 融解 ) can be measured by DSC by quantifying the heat of fusion associated with the melting point of the polymer. This heat is reported as percent crystallinity by normalizing the observed heat of fusion to that of a 100% crystalline sample of the same polymer. Because reliable samples of 100% crystalline polymers are rare, literature values ​​are often used for this value. In some embodiments, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer characterized by DSC at a rate of 10°C / min as having a heat of fusion of less than about 59 J / g when integrating the DSC melting peak. In some embodiments, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer characterized by DSC as having a heat of fusion of less than about 23 J / g.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50%, from about 1% to about 45%, from about 5% to about 40%, from about 10% to about 30%, from about 1% to about 30%, or from about 5% to about 25% crystallinity.

[0028] The second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus in the range of about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness in the range of about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will recognize how to measure tensile modulus or Shore A hardness. Tensile modulus is a mechanical property that measures the stiffness of a solid material. Tensile modulus defines the relationship between stress (force per unit area) and strain (proportional deformation) of a material in the linear elastic region of uniaxial deformation. Solid materials deform elastically when a small load is applied in compression or extension. The elastic deformation is reversible (when the load is removed, the material returns to its original shape).

[0029] When stress and strain are near zero, the stress-strain curve is linear and the relationship between stress and strain is described by Hooke's Law, which states that stress is proportional to strain. The factor of proportionality is the tensile modulus. The higher the modulus, the more stress is required to produce the same amount of strain. An idealized rigid body would have an infinite tensile modulus. Mathematically, the tensile modulus can be expressed as E = σ / ε, where E is the tensile modulus (usually expressed in Pa, kPa, or MPa), σ is the uniaxial stress or uniaxial force per unit surface, and ε is the strain or proportional deformation (change in length divided by the original length) (dimensionless).

[0030] Hardness is typically measured using a Shore hardness tester. Higher numbers on the Shore scale indicate greater resistance to indentation and therefore harder materials, while lower numbers indicate less resistance and softer materials. There are several scales of hardness testers used for materials with different properties. The two most common scales, which use slightly different measurement systems, are the ASTM D2240 Type A and Type D scales. Like many other hardness tests, hardness testers measure the indentation depth of a material caused by a given force against a standardized presser foot. This depth varies depending on the material's hardness, viscoelastic properties, presser foot geometry, and test time. The ASTM D2240 hardness tester can measure initial hardness or indentation hardness after a given period of time. The basic test requires a consistent force application without impact and hardness (indentation depth) measurement. If timed hardness is required, the force is applied for the required time and then read. The scale ranges from 0 to 100. Materials characterized herein using hardness are measured on the ASTM D2240 scale.

[0031] In some embodiments, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a styrenic thermoplastic olefin (TPO). In some embodiments, the rigid amorphous material comprises a polycarbonate or copolymer thereof, a polyacrylate or a copolymer thereof, such as a methyl methacrylate-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (mABS) copolymer, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or a copolymer thereof, or a derivative of any of the foregoing. Throughout this disclosure, the term "derivative" includes, but is not limited to, an ester, an amide, an imide, or an anhydride of the structure said to comprise the derivative.

[0032] In some embodiments, the solvent or solvent system is configured to be applied by a solvent dispenser, dip coating, or manual application. Solvents or solvent systems suitable for use in the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, solvents or solvent combinations including cyclohexanone, methyl ethyl ketone, cyclohexane, ethyl acetate, isobutyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, methyl isobutyl ketone, tetrahydrofuran, heptane, and any combination thereof.

[0033] In some embodiments, the binder is stable to sterilization temperatures up to about 60°C.

[0034] In some embodiments, the binder further comprises up to 5 wt.% of an organosol-modified polypropylene dispersion, up to 3 wt.% of one or more tackifiers, or both. Suitable tackifiers include, but are not limited to, terpene phenols, styrenated terpenes, rosin esters, terpene resins, and hydrocarbon resins.

[0035] In some embodiments, a method is provided that includes applying a bonding agent to form a bond between a first material and a second material. Application of the bonding agent can include application with a solvent dispenser, dip coating, or manual application. After application of the bonding agent, the bonding system can be sterilized at a temperature ranging from about 40°C to about 60°C, which can be useful for hardening the cement and strengthening the bond.

[0036] In a second embodiment, a method for bonding a first material to a second material is provided, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50%, and the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus ranging from about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness ranging from about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof, the method comprising: i) modifying the first material with a polar functional group that increases the affinity of the first material for the second material; and ii) bonding the first material to the second material. In this embodiment, the first and second materials can have the same characteristics as those described above in the bonding agent embodiment.

[0037] In some embodiments, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a styrenic thermoplastic olefin (TPO). In some embodiments, the rigid amorphous material comprises a polycarbonate or copolymer thereof, a polyacrylate or a copolymer thereof such as a methyl methacrylate-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (mABS) copolymer, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or a copolymer thereof, or a derivative of any of the foregoing.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first material is modified by grafting polar functional groups onto the first material via reactive extrusion. In some embodiments, reactive extrusion involves first activating the first material with an initiator to provide an activated material. An "initiator" is a reagent that can generate radical species under mild conditions and promote radical reactions. These substances generally have weak bonds with low bond dissociation energies. Examples include halogen molecules, azo compounds, and organic and inorganic peroxides. In some embodiments, the initiator is a peroxide. In some embodiments, the initiator is selected from benzyl peroxide, dicumyl peroxide, or 2,2'-azobisisobutyronitrile.

[0039] In some embodiments, the polar functional group is formed from reacting a monomeric compound containing at least one ester group. In some embodiments, the monomeric compound contains a carbon-carbon double bond capable of reacting with an activating material. In some embodiments, the monomeric compound is selected from the group consisting of methyl methacrylate, glycidyl methacrylate, and vinyl acetate.

[0040] In some embodiments, the reactive extrusion occurs with the first material in a molten state.

[0041] In some embodiments, modifying the first material includes grafting a monomer compound containing a polar functional group onto the first material using one or more tackifiers. Suitable tackifiers are described above. In some embodiments, the one or more tackifiers are selected from the group consisting of terpene phenols, styrenated terpenes, rosin esters, terpene resins, and hydrocarbon resins.

[0042] In some embodiments, the monomer compound comprises isoprene having a carbon-carbon double bond capable of reacting with an activating material.

[0043] In some embodiments, the method further comprises incorporating the modified material into a second material via dissolution at the interface with a solvent or solvent system, hi some embodiments, the solvent or solvent system comprises a solvent selected from the group consisting of cyclohexanone, methyl ethyl ketone, cyclohexane, ethyl acetate, isobutyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, methyl isobutyl ketone, tetrahydrofuran, heptane, and any combination thereof.

[0044] In some embodiments, modifying the first material further comprises combining it with up to about 10% by weight of a secondary compatibilizer selected from polyetheramine, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), or both, where the secondary compatibilizer increases the polarity of the first material. In some embodiments, modifying the first material further comprises combining it with up to about 10% by weight of an isoprene-based tackifier. In some embodiments, the isoprene-based tackifier is a terpene.

[0045] In some embodiments, modifying the first material further comprises combining it with up to about 1 wt. % of an antioxidant, up to about 1 wt. % of a processing aid, or both. In some embodiments, the antioxidant is pentaerythritol tetrakis(3-(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate) or 1,3,5-trimethyl-2,4,6-tris(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)benzene. In some embodiments, the processing aid is selected from fatty acid amide slip agents and inorganic mineral antiblocks.

[0046] In another embodiment, a method of bonding a first material to a second material, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity in the range of about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity, and the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus in the range of about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness in the range of about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof. A method is provided, comprising: i) providing a binder comprising one or more of the following: a) an organic solvent or solvent mixture capable of dissolving a first material and a second material; b) a blend of the first material and the second material; c) a polymeric material selected from polypropylene (PP), thermoplastic olefin (TPO), and thermoelastic elastomer (TPE), the polymeric material being functionalized with polar groups; and ii) bonding the first material to the second material using the binder. The materials used in this method can be the same as those described in the above embodiments.

[0047] In some embodiments, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a styrenic thermoplastic olefin (TPO). In some embodiments, the rigid amorphous material comprises a polycarbonate or copolymer thereof, a polyacrylate or a copolymer thereof such as a methyl methacrylate-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (mABS) copolymer, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or a copolymer thereof, or a derivative of any of the foregoing.

[0048] In some embodiments, the polar group is selected from the group consisting of a maleic anhydride group, a glycidyl methacrylate group, an N-substituted maleimide group, a carboxylic acid-containing group or an ester, amide, imide, or anhydride thereof, and the carboxylic acid-containing group is selected from a fumaric acid group, a citraconic acid group, and an itaconic acid group.

[0049] In some embodiments, the binder comprises up to about 5 wt. % of a secondary compatibilizer. In some embodiments, the secondary compatibilizer is a polyetheramine. In some embodiments, the binder comprises about 3.4 to about 51 wt. % of a solvent or solvent mixture, the solvent mixture comprising a polar solvent and a non-polar solvent. In some embodiments, the polar solvent is selected from methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), cyclohexanone, and dichloromethane, and the non-polar solvent is selected from hexane and heptane.

[0050] In some embodiments, the binder further comprises additional components selected from up to about 5 wt. % of an adhesion promoter, up to about 2 wt. % of a wetting agent, up to about 1 wt. % of a hydrolysis agent, up to about 5 wt. % of an expandable monomer compound, and up to about 5 wt. % of a polymer selected from polyurethane, styrene butadiene rubber with a vinyl content greater than 10%, and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA).

[0051] In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter is a tackifier selected from rosin, hydrocarbon resins, and terpene resins. In some embodiments, the wetting agent is a functional silane. In some embodiments, the swelling monomer is a lactone. In some embodiments, the lactone is glucono-delta-lactone.

[0052] In another embodiment, a method of bonding a first material to a second material, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity, and the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus ranging from about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness ranging from about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof. a) combining the first material with up to about 51% by weight of a functionalized polymer; b) combining the first material with up to about 5% by weight of a secondary compatibilizer; c) combining the first material with up to about 5% by weight of an adhesion promoter; d) combining the first material with up to about 5% by weight of an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer; and ii) bonding the modified first material to a second material using at least one technique selected from the group consisting of: a) combining the first material with up to about 51% by weight of a functionalized polymer; b) combining the first material with up to about 5% by weight of a secondary compatibilizer; c) combining the first material with up to about 5% by weight of a adhesion promoter; d) combining the first material with up to about 5% by weight of an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer; and ii) bonding the modified first material to a second material. The materials used in this method can be the same as those described above for other embodiments.

[0053] In some embodiments, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a styrenic thermoplastic olefin (TPO). In some embodiments, the rigid amorphous material comprises a polycarbonate or copolymer thereof, a polyacrylate or a copolymer thereof such as a methyl methacrylate-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (mABS) copolymer, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or a copolymer thereof, or a derivative of any of the foregoing.

[0054] In some embodiments, the functionalized polymer is selected from the group consisting of maleic anhydride (MAH) modified polypropylene copolymers or homopolymers, MAH modified polyolefin elastomers or plastomers, ethylene acrylic ester-maleic anhydride terpolymers, methacrylic esters grafted onto olefin copolymers, MAH functionalized styrene ethylene butylene styrene (SEBS), and linear triblock 13% styrene ethylene butylene 30% styrene copolymers. In some embodiments, the functionalized polymer is a polyetheramine.

[0055] In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter is a tackifier or EVA.

[0056] In some embodiments, the modified materials are formulated to be optimally processed by conventional processing equipment while maintaining the bulk properties of the modified material (e.g., molecular weight, crystallinity, dispersity, molecular structure, hardness, tensile modulus, etc.).

[0057] In another embodiment, a method for bonding a first material to a second material is provided, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar, the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity, and the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus ranging from about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness ranging from about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof, the method comprising: i) providing a binder comprising a solvent-free polymeric material; ii) melting the binder; and iii) bonding the first material to the second material using the molten binder. The materials used in this method can be the same as those used in the above embodiment.

[0058] In some embodiments, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a styrenic thermoplastic olefin (TPO). In some embodiments, the rigid amorphous material comprises a polycarbonate or a copolymer thereof, a polyacrylate or a copolymer thereof, such as a methyl methacrylate-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (mABS) copolymer, or an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or a copolymer thereof, or a derivative of any of the foregoing. In some embodiments, the binder further comprises a tackifier. In some embodiments, the solvent-free polymeric material is ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), a maleic anhydride-grafted polyolefin elastomer, a maleic anhydride-grafted plastomer, a thermoplastic polyurethane, or a hydrogenated styrenic block copolymer.

[0059] example Example 1 Degalan® is a methacrylate ester grafted to an olefin copolymer dispersed in an organic solvent. Degalan® was used as received and applied directly to the tubing with a cotton swab, or diluted in cyclohexanone solvent and then applied to the tubing. The luer assembly was used to test the bonding method to PVC. Bond strength was measured using a mechanical testing machine equipped with a 500 N load cell that maintained a 0.25-inch gap between the jaw and the luer adapter. The results are shown in Table 1. Figure 1 shows the assembled luer and hose. The test speed was 1 inch / minute. Force was measured using an Instron (Model 5500Q1979) 500 N load cell. Figure 2 shows the test apparatus and the assembled luer and hose placed within it. [Table 1]

[0060] Example 2 Xiameter™ silane wetting agents from Dow Corning were used to improve the bond between a thermoplastic elastomer tube made from Teknor Apex Medalist MD575 and a T-shaped polycarbonate connector made from 50 / 50 Makrolon 2458 / Makrolon Rx1805. The various types of silane agents used are listed in Table 2. The strength of the bond was then evaluated, as further described below. [Table 2]

[0061] Example 3 For the experiment, 10 ml of tetrahydrofuran (THF) was injected into a 20 ml glass bottle. 15 μl of acetic acid was added to facilitate hydrolysis of the reagent. An aliquot of silane coupling agent was injected into the solution and mixed for 5 minutes to ensure complete hydrolysis. The tubing was immersed in the solution, gently agitated, and removed after 1-2 minutes. The tubing was then inserted into the connector. An example of an assembled sample is shown in Figure 3. These samples were stored for 2 days until curing was complete.

[0062] Ethylene oxide (oxirane) was then simulated by heating the samples at 60°C and 30% relative humidity for 5 hours. The samples were then stored at room temperature for 5 days. Instron testing was performed on the samples at a train speed of 254 mm / min to record the maximum load before failure. Silane solutions at 2% volume concentration were tested in the experiments. Tables 3 and 4 summarize the data showing a statistically significant increase in bond strength with the use of OFS6020, OFS6030, and OFS6300. A graph of the average tensile strength for the various silanes is shown in Figure 4. [Table 3] [Table 4]

[0063] Example 3 - A thermal aging study was conducted to understand the effect of typical sterilization conditions on bond strength. The same materials as in Example 1 were utilized, with additional variables including dilution, diluent or solvent type, oven temperature, and heating time. DEGALAN® VP 4322 E and 4294 E, obtained from Evonik, were diluted with methyl isobutyl ketone or cyclohexanone in the volumetric ratios listed in Table 1. The Degalan solution was applied to the exterior surface of the tubing using a cotton-wrapped Q-tip. The tubing was manually assembled using Luer connectors made from mABS Terlux® 2802TR. Samples were placed in ovens set at 32°C and 55°C for periods ranging from 1 to 6 days. The same mechanical testing machine and tensile test conditions were used as in Example 1. Results show that bond strength increases as a function of oven temperature. Heating time, dilution percentage, or diluent type did not result in statistically significant changes in bond strength. [Table 5] [Table 6]

[0064] Example 4 Example 4. Various formulations were prepared using Eastman's Regalite™ R1100 tackifying hydrocarbon resin, DuPont™ Elvax® 150 ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer or EVA resin, and DuPont AFFINITY™ GA 1900 polyolefin elastomer (POE) in various ratios, as shown in Table 7. AFFINITY™ GA 1900 represents a functionalized polyolefin grafted with maleic anhydride and having a melt flow index of 1000 g / 10 min at 190°C and 2.16 kg test conditions according to the vendor. The formulations were dissolved in cyclohexanone (CHN) and dichloroethane (DCN). The formulations were applied to the exterior surface of the tubing using a cotton-wrapped Q-tip. The tubing was manually assembled with a Luer connector made from mABS Terlux® 2802TR and a Y-site connector made from CYRO GS90 acrylic multipolymer. According to Table 7, some of the samples were placed in an oven set at 60°C for 15 hours. The same mechanical testing machine and tensile test conditions were used as in Example 1. Table 7 shows that formulations containing POE showed an increase in bond strength up to 3 wt%. At POE compositions above 5 wt%, bond strength decreased and variability increased (Figure 6). In addition to the POE composition shown in Figure 6, these formulations contained 0.5% Elvax 150, 0.1 wt% R1100, and the balance CHN and DCN in the same wt% amounts. The results in Table 7 also show that the C5 formulation containing tackifier R1100 showed an increase in bond strength after heating at 60°C, which is representative of sterilization conditions. [Table 7]

[0065] Further considerations In some embodiments, any of the sections herein may depend from any one of the independent claims or any one of the dependent claims. In an aspect, any of the sections (e.g., dependent or independent) may be combined with any other section (e.g., dependent or independent). In an aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, operations, means, or components) recited in a section, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In an aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words recited in one or more sections, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In an aspect, some of the words in each section, sentence, phrase, or paragraph may be deleted. In an aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a section, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In an aspect, the subject technology may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions, or operations described herein. In an aspect, the subject technology may be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or operations.

[0066] The above description is provided to enable one skilled in the art to practice the various configurations described herein. While the subject technology has been particularly described with reference to various diagrams and configurations, it should be understood that these are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the subject technology.

[0067] There are many other ways to implement the subject technology. The various functions and elements described herein may be partitioned differently than shown without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Various modifications to these configurations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other configurations. Thus, many changes and modifications may be made to the subject technology by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the subject technology.

[0068] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0069] As used herein, the phrase "at least one" preceding a list of items, with the term "and" or "or" separating any of the items, modifies the list as a whole, not just each member (i.e., each item) of the list. The phrase "at least one" does not require the selection of at least one of each of the listed items. Rather, the phrase imparts meaning to include at least one of any one of the items, and / or at least one of any combination of the items, and / or at least one of each of the items. By way of example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" refers to A only, B only, or C only, any combination of A, B, and C, and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C, respectively.

[0070] Furthermore, when terms such as "including," "having," and the like are used in the description or claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive, similar to the term "comprises," which is interpreted as "comprising" when used as a transitional phrase in a claim.

[0071] In one or more embodiments, the terms "about," "substantially," and "approximately" may provide an industry-accepted tolerance for the relativity between their corresponding terms and / or items, such as from less than 1 percent to 5 percent.

[0072] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0073] Reference to an element in the singular does not mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more," unless otherwise specified. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter forms (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. The term "several" indicates one or more. Underlined and / or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit the subject art, and are not to be referenced in connection with interpreting the description of the subject art. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various configurations described throughout this disclosure that are known or later become known to those skilled in the art are expressly and expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the subject art. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is made available to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly recited in the above description.

[0074] While the detailed description contains many details, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the subject technology, but merely as illustrating various examples and aspects of the subject technology. It should be understood that the scope of the subject technology includes other embodiments not discussed in detail above. Various other modifications, changes, and variations may be made in the arrangement, operation, and details of the methods and apparatus of the subject technology disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, reference to an element in the singular does not mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more," unless explicitly stated otherwise. Furthermore, it is not necessary for a device or method to address every problem solvable (or have every advantage realizable) by various embodiments of the present disclosure to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure. The use of "can" and its derivatives herein should be understood to mean "possible" or "optionally," as opposed to positive capability.

[0075] References 1. Intern Review of Chem Eng Vol3, No2, March 2011, 153-215, Graft Copolymers of Maleic Anhydride and Its Isotructural Analogues 2. “Prog Polym Sci 29 (2004) 767-814, Grafting a versatile means to modify polymers” 3. European Polym Journal, 43, 2007, 3787-3794, Surface Modification of Polyethylene for improving the adhesion of a highly fluorinated UV-cured coating. 4. US Patent No. 5,721,315 5. International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives 25 (2005) 31-38, Addition of rosin acid during thermoplastic polyurethane synthesis to improve its immediate adhesion to PVC PVC-TPU adhesion 6. U.S. Patent No. 4,795,782 7. Polymer Vol. 36 pages 4587-4603, 1995 8. U.S. Patent No. 7,015,283 9. JP-03252436 10. U.S. Patent No. 5,612,097 11. EP 1233039A1

Claims

1. 1. A method of bonding a first material to a second material using a bonding agent, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar; the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity; the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus in the range of about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness in the range of about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof; the binder comprises an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, a polyolefin elastomer, a tackifier, and a solvent; The method, wherein the method includes applying the bonding agent to form a bond between the first material and the second material.

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a styrenic thermoplastic olefin (TPO).

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, further comprising sterilizing the first and second materials after applying the binder at a temperature ranging from about 40°C to about 60°C.

4. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the rigid amorphous material comprises a polycarbonate or a copolymer thereof, or a polyacrylate or a copolymer thereof.

5. 1. A method of bonding a first material to a second material, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar; the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity; the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus in the range of about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness in the range of about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof; The method i) modifying the first material with a polar functional group that increases the affinity of the first material for the second material; ii) bonding the first material to the second material. The above method, comprising:

6. The method of claim 5 , wherein modifying the first material comprises grafting the polar functional groups onto the first material via reactive extrusion.

7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the polar functional group is formed from reacting with a monomeric compound containing at least one ester group.

8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the monomer compound comprises a carbon-carbon double bond capable of reacting with an activating material.

9. 1. A method of bonding a first material to a second material, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar; the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity; the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus in the range of about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness in the range of about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof; The method i) providing a binder comprising one or more of the following: a) a binder comprising: a) an organic solvent or solvent mixture capable of dissolving the first material and the second material; b) a blend of said first material and said second material; c) a polymeric material selected from polypropylene (PP), thermoplastic olefin (TPO), and thermoelastic elastomer (TPE), which is functionalized with polar groups; ii) bonding said first material to said second material using said bonding agent; The above method, comprising:

10. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a styrenic thermoplastic olefin (TPO).

11. 11. The method of claim 9 or 10, wherein the rigid amorphous material comprises a polycarbonate or a copolymer thereof, or a polyacrylate or a copolymer thereof.

12. 11. The method according to claim 9, wherein the polar group is selected from the group consisting of a maleic anhydride group, a glycidyl methacrylate group, an N-substituted maleimide group, a carboxylic acid-containing group or an ester, amide, imide or anhydride thereof, and the carboxylic acid-containing group is selected from a fumaric acid group, a citraconic acid group and an itaconic acid group.

13. 1. A method of bonding a first material to a second material, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar; the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity; the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus in the range of about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness in the range of about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof; The method i) modifying said first material using at least one technique from the group consisting of: a) mixing said first material with up to about 51% by weight of a functionalized polymer; b) mixing said first material with up to about 5% by weight of a secondary compatibilizer; c) mixing said first material with up to about 5% by weight of an adhesion promoter; d) mixing said first material with up to about 5% by weight of an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer; and ii) binding the modified first material to the second material. The above method, comprising:

14. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a styrenic thermoplastic olefin (TPO).

15. 15. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the functionalized polymer is selected from the group consisting of maleic anhydride (MAH) modified polypropylene copolymers or homopolymers, MAH modified polyolefin elastomers or plastomers, ethylene acrylic ester-maleic anhydride terpolymers, methacrylic esters grafted onto olefin copolymers, MAH functionalized styrene ethylene butylene styrene (SEBS) and linear triblock 13% styrene ethylene butylene 30% styrene copolymers.

16. 15. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the adhesion promoter is a tackifier or EVA.

17. 1. A method of bonding a first material to a second material, wherein the first and second materials are dissimilar; the first material comprises a non-polyvinyl chloride (non-PVC) polyolefin polymer, the non-PVC polyolefin polymer being amorphous or having a crystallinity ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% crystallinity; the second material comprises a rigid amorphous material having a tensile modulus in the range of about 1800 to about 3000 MPa, PVC having a Shore A hardness in the range of about 70 to about 85, or a combination thereof; The method i) providing a binder comprising a solvent-free polymeric material; ii) melting the binder; iii) bonding the first material to the second material using the molten bonding agent. The above method, comprising:

18. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the non-PVC polyolefin polymer is a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a styrenic thermoplastic olefin (TPO).

19. 19. The method of claim 17 or 18, wherein the binder further comprises a tackifier.

20. 19. The method of claim 17 or 18, wherein the solvent-free polymeric material is ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), maleic anhydride grafted polyolefin elastomer, maleic anhydride grafted plastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane, and hydrogenated styrenic block copolymer.

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